For Immediate Release:   February 1, 2008

 

Fifth Graders Make Musical Magic with Nationally-Known Composer and the Brevard Symphony Orchestra

 

VIERA—Some Brevard Public Schools fifth graders will soon have a few moments of musical fame, having contributed to an orchestral piece that debuts Feb. 5 and 6 at the Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts. The “Space Coast Suite” will have its world premiere during the exclusive event for students.           

Last fall, fifth graders at Apollo Elementary School, MILA Elementary School, Croton Elementary School and Discovery Elementary School collaborated with American composer Gregory Smith from Los Angeles. This special project, funded by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra in conjunction with the annual county-wide fifth grade concerts, resulted in Smith taking melodies from each school to arrange and orchestrate a special piece of music.

Thanks to the BSO and the time devoted by its musicians, the annual concerts for all fifth graders provide an unparalleled opportunity for students to get an up-close experience with the arts. Last year, more than 6,000 public and private school students enjoyed the performances.

This year’s “Space Coast Suite” has four movements, featuring one melody from each school. It will debut during the BSO’s concerts that the fifth graders attend Feb. 5 and 6 at the King Center. The student composers will also be recognized on stage in front of their peers during the program. All of the student composers’ names are printed in the orchestral score and the piece is dedicated to the BSO. 

“This is a tremendous creative opportunity for our students,” said Superintendent Dr. Richard A. DiPatri. “Experiences that enrich the creative components of our curriculum are integral to a well-rounded educational foundation. We applaud this unique collaboration.”

Additionally, all four schools will bring their student composers to the King Center for the final BSO dress rehearsal at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4. The students will see first-hand how a composer conveys his ideas to the conductor, who in turn motivates the musicians to meet the goals the composer had in mind. The entire process is aligned with the music Sunshine State Standards and Grade Level Expectations. 

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